Oral PathologyChicago Area

Oral Pathology is a specialty that identifies and treats afflictions of the mouth and maxillofacial region. Diagnoses are completed with the help of several examinations including radiographic, microscopic, biochemical and other in-office tests. Oral pathologists are specially educated and trained to diagnose certain diseases such as mouth and throat cancer, mumps, salivary gland disorders, ulcers, infections and more.

Signs of Oral Pathology

The inside of a healthy mouth is normally lined with a special type of smooth, coral pink skin called mucosa. Any alteration in the appearance of your mucosa could be a warning sign of a pathological process, the most serious being oral cancer. We urge you to schedule a visit to our River Forest, IL office if you notice any of the following:

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Reddish patches in the mouth (erythroplasia)

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Whitish patches in the mouth (leukoplakia)

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A sore that hasn’

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t healed or bleeds easily

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A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth

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Chronic sore throat

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Hoarse speech

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Difficulty chewing or swallowing

These and other changes in the color or texture of your lips, cheeks, palate, gum tissues, tongue, face, and neck, should be closely observed. Pain is not always the first sign of pathology in your mouth, and, strangely, is not often associated with oral cancer. If, however, you are experiencing oral or facial pain without an obvious reason, we urge you to call us at (708) 456-7787 to schedule a visit with a specialist at Cameo at your earliest convenience.

Patients at Risk for Oral Pathology

Certain habits and lifestyles can contribute to a higher likelihood of oral pathology. Patients who use tobacco, drink alcohol to excess, and are often exposed to the sun have an increased risk for pathology. Some research has suggested that human papillomavirus (HPV) is a contributing factor in the occurrence of oral cancer. Still, there are many instances in which patients with oral pathology can claim none of these lifestyle risks. That’s why screening is so important.

Oral Pathology Screenings

We recommend performing monthly self-examinations to check for any changes in the color and appearance of your mouth, and any of the afflictions listed above. Be aware that your mouth serves as one of the most important warning systems in your body, so you should always be aware and look for signs of changes. a specialist at Cameo and the rest of us at Cameo Dental Specialists urge you never to ignore a suspicious sore or lump if you notice once in your mouth, as it may be a sign of a change in your oral pathology and call us to schedule an appointment as soon as you are able.

Professional oral cancer screenings should be conducted once a year. You can count on us to be vigilant in the search for signs of oral pathology in our patients. We’ll perform a thorough exam of your mouth during your next routine dental visit and can order additional tests and screenings if need be. We’ll also consider any risk factors in your lifestyle and give you recommendations on how best to keep yourself healthy.

Call Cameo Dental Specialists today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations in La Grange, River Forest, Berwyn and West Loop serving the Pilsen, Hinsdale, Westchester, Western Springs, Elmhurst, The Loop, South Loop, West Town, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, River North, Humboldt Park, Wrigleyville, Little Village, Cicero and other Chicago communities.

The Cameo doctors who lead our experienced and highly trained staff provide exceptional care in a friendly and comfortable environment.Call Cameo Dental Specialists today to schedule an appointment at one of our locations in Chicago, Berwyn, River Forest and La Grange, IL.